Veterans, Union Members, and Working Families Built Alabama

Guest Opinion by Attorney Everett Wess, Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate

I grew up on Alabama's Gulf Coast as the oldest of five children in a hardworking family. My father was both a veteran and a shipyard worker. He taught me the values of service, sacrifice, hard work, and standing up for what is right.

As a child, I remember difficult times when shipyard workers went on strike to fight for better wages, safer working conditions, and benefits that would allow families to survive and prosper. Those moments taught me that working people are strong when they stand together.

I am proud to say that I am the son of a union worker.

Because of my upbringing, I understand the important role organized labor has played in building Alabama and America. Unions helped create the middle class. They fought for fair pay, workplace safety, retirement security, health benefits, and dignity on the job. The rights many workers enjoy today did not come easily; they were earned through generations of workers who stood together and demanded fairness.

I also understand the sacrifices made by our veterans. My father's military service instilled in our family a deep respect for those who have worn the uniform of our nation. Veterans deserve more than our gratitude. They deserve access to quality health care, good-paying jobs, affordable housing, educational opportunities, and the benefits they earned through their service.

Throughout my career as an attorney, municipal judge, community leader, and voting rights advocate, I have worked to help people who often feel overlooked and unheard. I know that Alabama's future depends on creating opportunities for working families, supporting labor rights, protecting Social Security and Medicare, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring that veterans receive the care and respect they deserve.

As your next United States Senator, I will fight for:

• Good-paying jobs that support Alabama families.
• Stronger protections for workers and the right to organize.
• Fair wages and safe workplaces.
• Protection of Social Security and Medicare.
• Expanded opportunities for veterans transitioning to civilian life.
• Affordable health care and prescription drugs.
• Investments in Alabama's ports, shipyards, roads, bridges, and workforce development.
• Voting rights and equal opportunity for every citizen.

The June 16, 2026 Democratic Primary Runoff Election is an opportunity for Alabama Democrats to choose a candidate who understands the struggles and aspirations of working families.

I am asking labor organizations, union members, veterans, retirees, and working people throughout Alabama to talk with your friends, families, coworkers, and fellow union members about this election. Encourage them to vote and make their voices heard.

Our state needs leadership that understands where working people come from because it comes from the same place.

I never forgot the lessons I learned from my father, a veteran, a shipyard worker, and a union man. Those lessons continue to guide me today.

On June 16, 2026, I respectfully ask for your vote in the Democratic Primary Runoff Election.

Together, we can build an Alabama that works for everyone.

Attorney Everett Wess
Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate

For more information: https://wessforsenate.com.